France and Spain face off in 2026 World Cup semifinal rematch in Dallas

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France and Spain face off in 2026 World Cup semifinal rematch in Dallas
England and Argentina to meet in 2026 World Cup semi-final after controversial quarter-final wins
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France and Spain are set to clash in the semifinal of the 2026 FIFA World Cup on Tuesday in Dallas, with a place in the final at stake. The match, which kicks off at 10:00 PM local time, is a rematch of the 2024 European Championship semifinal, where Spain emerged victorious with a 2-1 win.
France, the 2018 World Cup champions, are aiming to reach their third successive final. They are led by Kylian Mbappe, who has been in scintillating form, scoring eight goals in six games so far in the tournament. Mbappe, who was substituted late in France's quarterfinal win over Morocco due to a minor ankle injury, has been confirmed as fully available for the match by coach Didier Deschamps.
Mbappe has been in remarkable form this season, scoring 42 goals in 44 games for Real Madrid, making him the top scorer in both La Liga and the Champions League. He currently leads the Golden Boot race at the World Cup with eight goals in six games, matching Lionel Messi's tally.
Spain, the 2010 World Cup winners and current European champions, are looking to become only the fourth team to hold both the world and European titles simultaneously. They are pinning their hopes on young sensation Lamine Yamal, who has been compared to Mbappe for his potential to shine on the big stage.
Deschamps, speaking to reporters on Monday, emphasized the importance of possession in the match. "Spain can apply a lot of pressure, but we are also a team who need the ball," he said. "There will be a battle for control."
Spain's coach, de la Fuente, expressed confidence in his team's ability to handle the pressure of the semifinal. "The great match of Lamine is yet to come, and I hope it will be against France," he said.
The match is expected to be a tight affair, with both teams boasting a wealth of talent and experience. France is slightly favored, but Spain's recent form and their victory over France in the European Championship semifinal will give them confidence.
Deschamps also confirmed that midfielder Aurelien Tchouameni is available for selection after recovering from a hamstring problem. Tchouameni's presence would give France a natural holding midfielder capable of protecting the defense and helping the team play through Spain’s pressure.
Spain, on the other hand, has had to deal with more travel miles compared to France, which could affect their performance in the match.
The match will take place at the AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, with fans from both nations eagerly anticipating a thrilling encounter.
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